Alleged COMELEC Election Equipment Found In Private Residence in Davao

A barangay administrator from Rosalina 3, Davao City, received a tip on Friday, April 4, 2025, regarding alleged Commission on Elections (COMELEC) materials stored in a private residence in Purok Santo Niño, Dumanlas, Buhangin. The tip, provided by a concerned citizen, prompted an immediate response from the Davao City Police Office (DCPO).

Upon inspection, police officers discovered multiple boxes reportedly containing solar panels and Starlink Wi-Fi transmission equipment. Initial reports speculated that the items might be linked to COMELEC’s central office in Manila and were allegedly bound for deployment in the Davao Region. The homeowner told authorities that the equipment had been stored temporarily at the request of a relative involved in the project.

To address public concerns, the Commission on Elections released an official statement on Saturday, April 5. According to COMELEC, the devices were legitimate election support materials, including Starlink satellite communication kits and solar panels. These were part of the commission’s official logistics rollout in preparation for the May 12, 2025, elections. The deployment is being managed through their accredited service provider, iOne Resources Joint Venture with Ardent Networks, Inc.

COMELEC clarified that the equipment had been temporarily placed at what it described as a “designated staging hub” before its scheduled delivery to Voting and Canvassing Centers throughout the Davao Region. The commission emphasized that these devices are intended strictly for transmitting election results and are not involved in vote counting or managing any election software.

In light of the public reaction and to ensure transparency and added security, COMELEC has ordered the immediate transfer of the equipment to official election offices. This operation is being conducted under the supervision of the Philippine National Police (PNP). Furthermore, COMELEC has directed a nationwide inspection of all staging and storage hubs to guarantee the integrity and proper handling of election materials.

COMELEC assured the public that no irregularity or violation has occurred and that all activities are per election procedures. The commission reiterated its commitment to holding secure and credible elections in May.